what does recirculate mean on pool filter

Author: Poolking - Swimming Pool Equipment Manufacturer

What Does Recirculate Mean on Pool Filter?

Whether you are a new pool owner or have been maintaining a pool for years, understanding the different pool filter settings is important to keep your pool running smoothly. One of the filter settings that can be confusing is recirculate. In this article, we will discuss what recirculate means on a pool filter and how to use it effectively.

What Does Recirculate Mean?

Recirculate is a pool filter setting that bypasses the filter entirely and sends the water back into the pool untreated. This means that the water will not be cleaned or sanitized and any debris or contaminants will remain in the pool. Recirculate is commonly used when the pool water needs to be circulated without being filtered. Here are some scenarios where you might want to use the recirculate setting:

1. Chemical Distribution: When adding chemicals to the pool, such as chlorine, it is important to distribute them evenly throughout the pool. Using the recirculate setting can help to circulate the water and distribute the chemicals evenly.

2. Shock Treatment: When performing a shock treatment on the pool, the recirculate setting can be used to circulate the water and distribute the shock treatment evenly.

3. Circulation: Sometimes, it is necessary to circulate the pool water without filtering it. This can be done with the recirculate setting.

4. Water Features: If your pool has water features, such as a waterfall or a fountain, using the recirculate setting can help to circulate the water through the features without filtering it.

How to Use the Recirculate Setting

Using the recirculate setting is simple. Here are the steps:

1. Turn off the pump.

2. Set the filter valve to the recirculate position.

3. Turn the pump back on.

4. The water will now recirculate and flow back into the pool untreated.

5. Once you are finished using the recirculate setting, turn off the pump and set the filter valve back to its original position.

Tips for Using the Recirculate Setting

Here are some tips to help you use the recirculate setting effectively:

1. Use the recirculate setting sparingly: The recirculate setting should not be used as a substitute for regular pool maintenance. It should only be used when necessary.

2. Use the recirculate setting for short periods: The recirculate setting should not be used for long periods of time. It should only be used for short periods, such as when distributing chemicals or performing a shock treatment.

3. Test the water regularly: When using the recirculate setting, it is important to test the water regularly to ensure that the chemical levels and pH balance are correct.

4. Clean the filter regularly: When using the recirculate setting, debris and contaminants will not be removed from the water. This means that the filter may become clogged more quickly than usual. Be sure to clean the filter regularly to prevent damage to the pump.

5. Use recirculate instead of drain: Sometimes, pool owners mistakenly think they need to drain the pool completely to perform maintenance. In reality, using the recirculate setting is often a better option than draining the pool, as draining the pool can cause damage to the pool structure.

In conclusion, the recirculate setting on a pool filter is a valuable tool that can be used to distribute chemicals, perform shock treatments, circulate water, and maintain water features. However, it should be used sparingly and for short periods of time. Be sure to test the water regularly, clean the filter, and use the recirculate setting instead of draining the pool whenever possible. With good maintenance practices, your pool will remain clean, safe, and enjoyable for years to come.